Enumeration of Bacterial Isolates from Hands of Primary and Post Primary School pupils in Amai, Delta State

Abstract

The presence of bacteria on the hands of fourty (40) school pupils  from two different schools (Amai Primary and secondary School) in Amai, Delta State, was analysed. The reason was to enumerate bacteria isolated from hands of students. Swab samples were collected from hands of  pupils in both schools of 20 students each of different sex groups.  Microbiological methods was used for the isolation, enumeration and antibiotic  test of the  isolates. The results showed various isolates of Staphylococcus sp 56 (25.7%), Shigella sp 24 (9.7%), Staphylococcus epidermidis 32 (12.1%), Escherichia coli 41 (15.6%), and Enterococcus sp 36 (11.0%). Staphylococcus aureus 56 (25.3%) and Escherichia coli 41 (15.6%) were the most frequent isolates. The isolation of Shigella sp  24 (9.7%) and Enterococcus sp 36 (11.0%) is of great  importance as the isolation of these organisms showed improper  faecal wastes disposal around the  school environment and also lack of proper clean up after using the convience by the pupils. Testing these isolates to few  antibiotics, the isolates were susceptible to Pefloxacin, Gentamycin, Erythromycin, Chloramphenicol, Streptomycin, while resistant to Augmentin, Amoxicillin, and Ampiclox. This study revealed that the students hands were infested with pathogens due negligence of maintenance culture. Those in charge of schools like the principal  are advised to keep soap and water  for hand washing, while parents on their part should make available hand washing facilities for their children at home since it will add economic value to the society, why Government should enact laws that will make provision of washing hand amenities in all areas compulsory for individuals.